Indians' Miller out with sore finger

Cleveland Indians pitcher Adam Miller is out because of soreness in the right-hand finger that required surgery last season.

Cleveland Indians pitcher Adam Miller is out because of soreness in the right-hand finger that required surgery last season.

Miller, one of Cleveland's top prospects and a candidate for a spot in the bullpen, had surgery on the middle finger on his pitching hand to repair a tendon in May. He missed the rest of the season at triple-A Buffalo, but returned to pitch in the Instructional League and winter ball.

Miller was scratched from a scheduled appearance Friday against San Diego. It's not known when he will throw again.

Miller, 24, can reach the high 90s with his fastball, but he hasn't been able to stay healthy. He has spent the last two years at Buffalo, but appeared in only six games last season and 19 in 2007 because of issues with the finger. Miller also had elbow problems in 2005.

Wedge said right-hander Kerry Wood, who has been bothered by a sore back, threw a bullpen session Friday with no problems. The manager isn't sure when Wood, who signed a two-year, $20.5 million contract in December to be the team's closer, will throw again.

Outfielder Grady Sizemore had treatment on his strained left groin yesterday. The injury forced him from his spot on the United States roster in the World Baseball Classic.

Right-hander Joe Smith, who missed five days because of a virus, is playing catch, but Wedge said he needs to build up his strength before he throws off the mound.

Wedge thinks designated hitter Travis Hafner (right shoulder) and outfielder David Dellucci (left thumb) will make their first appearances in games this week.

Royals' Bale needs surgery

Kansas City Royals left-hander John Bale will undergo surgery Tuesday to correct a thyroid problem.

The Royals learned of Bale's possible thyroid problem after a spring training physical detected abnormalities. Bale returned to Kansas City for further examinations.

The 34-year-old, who began last season in the rotation, is hoping to resume workouts after two weeks.

Short hops

Colorado outfielder Brad Hawpe will miss the World Baseball Classic because of a left finger injury. Hawpe had four stitches on his pinkie after being spiked in the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels on Friday. ... The Kansas City Royals reached a two-year agreement with right-handed reliever Juan Cruz. ... The Mariners told third baseman Adrian Beltre he can't play for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic because he hasn't recovered from surgery on his left thumb and left shoulder last fall.